T. & J. Bragg - Birmingham

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Mayoral Chain for Salisbury

A specially artistic chain and badge have just been completed for the ancient Borough of New Sarum, by Messrs. T. and J. Bragg, of Birmingham. The matter was placed in the hands of Mr. J. W. Tonks, whose experience in these civic decorations has been so extensive. The ornament is now finished, and combines historic interest with fine effect and elaborate detail. The badge is of large size, circular, with a Gothic foliated suspending attachment, and has rich mouldings on each side enclosing an ornamental border, the obverse having the letters forming the name of the city, "Salisbury," on enamelled bosses, and oak bands and laurel intervening. Within this is a six-arch canopy with panels and spandrils, the decoration being the same each side, and the centre being left open to display the arms. These also are made to display the supporters, obverse and reverse, the shield of the city having two eagles, gold, with extended wings and gorged, with coronets, azure. The English rose as in seal appears above, and the motto in enamel below, " Civitas Nova Sarum." The centre link of chain is a representation in enamel of the old city seal " Saresburie," as it is given in the quaint old Latin, the Madonna and Infant Saviour, cathedral towers and spires, with birds and celestial bodies, being contrasted with the inside arch of church, where the Bishop is represented officiating. This link, similar to the other circular links of smaller size, has a border of Maltese crosses and fleurs-de-lis as on the fillet of the English crown ; the Mayor representing in certain matters the devolved Royal authority within his borough. A double row of oblong links connect the whole chain, and between the chief circular links are boldly carved two-headed eagles, the supporters of the city arms, showing both back and front, and forming a very characteristic feature. The circular links, with coronet border and rich mouldings, have a series of coats of arms, in enamel, viz. :—1. The Old City Arms ; 2. The Cathedral Cognisance ; 3. The arms of Henry III., who, in 1227, gave the city a charter, conferring the same privileges as on Winchester ; 4. Those of James I., who gave a special charter of incorporation ; 5. Those of Queen Anne ; and finally (6), the Royal arms for the present reign. Other circular links have the initial letter " S.'' in mediaeval character, the reverse in all cases being left free for inscriptions.

Source: The Watchmaker, Jeweller and Silversmith - 2nd October 1893

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Messrs. T. & J. Bragg, of Birmingham, have just finished a rare specimen of art, in a badge and chain manufactured by them for the Mayor of Swansea. The Chain of Office has been presented to the Corporation of Swansea by Mr. Frank Ash Yeo, whose year of office as Mayor of that borough expired in November last. The ornament is of massive Gothic design, and executed in that manner and style for which Messrs. Bragg have so wide and merited a reputation, reflecting considerable credit on all parties concerned in its design and manufacture.

Source: The Watchmaker, Jeweller and Silversmith - 5th April 1876

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The opening of the Birmingham and Midland Skin and Lock Hospital, was marked by presentation of a handsome key to Mr. Inge. It was the gift of the architects, Messrs. James & Lister Lea & Son, and was manufactured by Messrs. T. & J. Bragg, of Birmingham. It is in silver, richly gilt and enamelled, designed after the style of the new building. The stem is a fluted column witli foliated capital and decorative mouldings, leading to a heart-shaped head with rich scrolls and arched top. The Esculapian staff, with serpent drinking from a cup, the symbol of the art of healing, and the heart, an emblem of charity, occupy the upper parts of the head. The name of the Hospital together with the arms of Birmingham in enamel, occupy one side, while the arms, crest and motto of Mr. Inge are placed on the other, also in enamel. The inscription is given on an ornamental shield on the case and the whole design has been carefully and artistically carried out.

Source: The Watchmaker, Jeweller and Silversmith - 2nd July 1888

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Mr. Thomas Bragg, senior partner of the well-known firm of Messrs. T. and J. Bragg, goldsmiths and jewellers, of Victoria Street, Birmingham, died suddenly on the 7th ult. Mr. Bragg had just completed his sixtieth year. In him the Birmingham jewellery trade has undoubtedly lost one of its worthiest members.

Source: The Watchmaker, Jeweller and Silversmith - 5th November 1879

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Key for H.R.H. the Prince of Wales .—A handsome silver-gilt key was presented to H.R.H. the Prince of Wales, on the occasion of his opening the Jubilee Hall, Ealing. The commission was given to Mr. C. O. Walter, of Ealing, who entrusted the design and manufacture to Messrs. T. & J. Bragg, of Birmingham. The style of the key is renaissance. The motive of the head is circular, with open scroll work around the border. The obverse is occupied by an escutcheon bearing the words, "Victoria, 1837-1887," on an enamelled band. On the reverse is the following inscription:—" Ealing—presented to His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales, on his opening the Hall, December 15th, 1888." On either side of the inscription is the rose, thistle and shamrock, as national emblems, and above it are the Prince of Wales' feathers. The capital of Key column is decorated with the rose of England, while suitable decorations are shown on the column. The whole is finished in the best style, and will form an interesting souvenir of the occasion.

Source: The Watchmaker, Jeweller and Silversmith - 1st January 1889

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Presentation to Earl Dudley.—As a mark of esteem on attaining his majority, the members of the Dudley Troop of Worcestershire Yeomanry (of
which his Lordship is captain) subscribed for a beautiful gold cigar case, the manufacture of which was entrusted to Messrs. T. & J. Bragg, of Birmingham. It is hallmarked and weighs some seven ounces ; it is arranged to take the four cigars with the least possible thickness in wear, and is shaped to fit closely in the pocket. One side is decorated with the Earl's coronet and monogram, both raised in wrought and carved gold; the other bears the inscription:—"Presented by members of the Dudley Troop, Queen's Own Worcestershire Hussars, to their captain, the Right Hon. the Earl of Dudley, on attaining his majority, 25 May, 1888." The presentation was made at Himley, on August 30, and his Lordship in acknowledging the gift said that during the week he had received many addresses of congratulation and also numerous presents, but there was no presentation which he appreciated, more sincerely than the one that had been made him that day. He certainly should keep that exquisite cigar case as a memento of that happy occasion. He was glad to see the members of the troop looking hale and hearty. During the past two years they had worked well, and he was glad that they had increased in numbers.


Source: The Watchmaker, Jeweller and Silversmith - 1st October 1888

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T. and J. Bragg - Birmingham - 1858

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BRAGG, T. & J., Goldsmiths, Jewellers, Diamond Mounters, Makers of Royal and Civic Insignia, Caskets and Keys, 55, 57, Vittoria Street, Birmingham. Hours of Business: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Established in 1844 by Thomas Bragg and John Bragg (retired, d.). Continued by Thomas Bragg (d.), joined by Joseph William Tonks. Present Principal: Joseph William Tonks, J.P. Specialities: New Styles of Personal Ornaments with Roman and Etruscan decoration, Enamels applied to Jewellery. Introduced new principles of design in Mayoral Chains, Maces and Seals. Claim that most of the modern civic insignia and presentation caskets of the highest class are manufactured by the firm. Designers of every kind of work in Jewellery, and the Goldsmiths' and Silversmiths' Arts. Awards: Medals, London International Exhibition, 1862; Silver Medal, 1872, for Design; Member of the Jury, Paris, 1889. Connection: United Kingdom and Colonial. Royal Warrants: Special appointment to Her Majesty Queen Alexandra, 1901 (Jeweller in Ordinary). Held special appointment to Her late Majesty Queen Victoria, 1885. Telephone: No. 3373 Central, Birmingham. Telegraphic and Cable Address: Bragoria, Birmingham." Code: A B C (5th Edition). Bankers: United Counties Bank, Ltd.

Source: Whitaker's Red Book of Commerce or Who's Who in Business - 1914

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MAYORAL CHAIN FOR ABERYSTWITH

During the recent visit of the Prince of Wales to Aberystwith the mayor wore for first time the beautiful gold chain of office, which had been manufactured by Messrs. T. and J. Bragg, of Birmingham. The chain which is of 18-carat quality, hall-marked, consists of a central badge, with a series of bold links of the Tudor period, with vexica- shape ornamental connecting links, the whole held in position by a double row of oval bands. The larger members of the chain have shields appropriate to the period, with civic crowns surmounting them. These shields are inscribed with the names of a series of mayors and the dates of their years of service.

Source: Evening Express - 25th July 1896

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Another very handsome gold chain of office is being made by Messrs. T. and J. Bragg for the ancient borough of Okehampton, the commission being given by J. D. Prickman, Esq., mayor, who has taken a great interest in obtaining the first portion of what will be a very elaborate civic decoration when complete. The badge takes the form of an oval medallion, with the Royal border of Maltese crosses and fleurs-de-lis, as upon the fillet of the English crown, and having a mural coronet over it. The centre of the badge is occupied by the arms of the borough —the three towered castle of Okehampton—in correct heraldic colors, while round it is the motto " Insigne Burgi Ockmenton " in gold letters on an enamelled field. On the reverse of this is the following inscription : —" Charters granted a.d. 1272, 1291, 1623, and 1684. Created Municipal borough 1885." The larger links are of shield pattern, connected by other links, with alternating English roses enamelled white and red. On the shield links will be engraved the name and date of office of each successive mayor. The centre link, from which the badge depends, is a large Tudor rose, blazoned in enamel, and surmounted by a Royal crown. The whole of this will be in gold Hall-marked, and is arranged for other links to be added year by year. It will worthily represent the borough at the Mansion House gathering next month.

Source: The Watchmaker, Jeweller and Silversmith - 1st October 1891

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Casket for Mr. Robert Peel

The tenantry of the Peel Estates in Drayton, Fazeley, Tamworth, Hopwas, Tamhorn, and Kingsbury, have subscribed for a very elaborate gold, silver, and ivory Casket, containing an address to be presented to Mr. Robert Peel on the occasion of his attaining majority. The design and execution of the work were entrusted to Messrs. T. and J. Bragg, of Victoria Street, Birmingham, and the whole has been carried out with special regard to the occasion. The main body of the casket is ivory, with gold columns, borders, escutcheons, ribbons, and frames to enamel paintings. The arms, shields, bas-reliefs, and model figures are in silver. In the centre of the Casket in front, standing in a raised archway supported by massive gold pillars, is a silver statue of the late Sir Robert Peel, reduced from the statue standing in the Tamworth Market Place. On either side of this in gold frames are enamel painted views of old Drayton Manor, and the present Mansion and Flower Garden. On the reverse of the Casket are the Tamworth Arms, flanked on either hand by the crest of the Peel family and the motto "Industria" beautifully done in silver and enamel. The lid is surmounted by a bold and effective rendering of the Peel and Tweeddale families, with crest, helmet, supporters and motto ; the lions being fully and finely modelled in silver, and the blazon in enamel. At the sides on the lid are portraits in enamel of the Right Hon. Sir Robert and Lady Emily Peel, with their respective monograms in shields below. On the front of the lid is a very fine shield showing in gold and enamel Mr. Robert Peel's monogram. The family motto "By Industry" has been made the ruling motive of the design, as evidenced by the exquisite work in silver round the lid representative of Agriculture, Art, and Commerce. Four finely modelled statuettes in silver placed at the corners have reference respectively to Agriculture, the Industrial Arts, and wise and just legislation. The Casket is placed on an ebony base, and the general effect is most pleasing. The delicate ribbons, borderings, and framings of gold, with the requisite designs in silver and the artistic colouring of the enamels show the work of a master hand, and the Committee are to be congratulated on their selection of Messrs. Bragg to carry out the work. Inside the Casket, which is lined with pale blue satin, are the address and signatures. This address is illuminated in a masterly style, bears at the respective corners the Peel and Tweeddale Arms, the Tamworth Arms, and a trophy suggestive of Industry.

Source: The Watchmaker, Jeweller and Silversmith - 1st August 1888

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Messrs. T. and J. Bragg, of Vittoria Street, Birmingham have now received the Royal warrant authorising them to use the words "By appointment," in consequence of the successful execution of the order for the Royal Fan, entrusted to them by the Queen.

Source: The Jeweller and Metalworker - 15th June 1885

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Recognizing the benefits of registered telegraphic addresses, Messrs. T. & J. Bragg - who are now, by the way, jewellers by appointment to Royalty - have registered "Bragoria," Birmingham, as their address.

Source: The Jeweller and Metalworker - 1st January 1886

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The Paris Exhibition.—Mr. J. W. Tonks, of the firm of T. and J. Bragg, jewellers, of London and Birmingham, has been appointed one of the jurors for the Paris Exhibition, in the section of Jewellery and Goldsmiths' work. Mr. Julian Tripplin, of Bartlett's Buildings, Holborn Circus, is the English representative of the Horological Jury.

Source: The Watchmaker, Jeweller and Silversmith - 1st July 1889

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Again, on walking into Messrs. T. and J. Bragg's, I light upon Mr. Tonks reading, in business hours, not the Watchmaker, Jeweller and Silversmith, as I should have excused hint doing, but the organ of the Primrose League! — his apology for such unbusinesslike behaviour being the fact that his house is engaged upon the manufacture of a whole series of badges and orders of mysterious import of, I forget how many " degrees " in Primrose Leaguery.

Source: The Watchmaker, Jeweller and Silversmith - 1st April 1889

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THE CORPORATION INSIGNIA AND PLATE OF CHESTERFIELD

......The Mayor's Gold Chain and Badge, presented to the Corporation in 1874, by the then Mayor, Mr. Alderman T. P. Wood, was supplied through a local silversmith, Mrs. Thompson, of Chesterfield, and manufactured by Messrs. T. & J. Bragg, of Birmingham, and is a remarkably good example of their taste and skill as workers in the precious metals. The Chain consists of eighteen large oblong links, of Elizabethan character, of highly ornate, and, at the same time, chaste design, with triplets of circular links intervening. The central boss is a shield bearing the initials, in monogram, of the donor, T. P. W. The badge, which depends from the central boss, bears a shield charged with the arms of the Borough of Chesterfield, gules, on a fesse, or, a lozenge, azure, surrounded with an exquisitely designed Elizabethan oval frame-work, about which the rose, thistle, and shamrock are gracefully entwined. It is surmounted by a mural crown, beneath which are the words " BOROUGH OF CHESTERFIELD." The badge, like the chain, is of fine gold, and the arms are enamelled in heraldic colours. The reverse side of the badge bears the inscription : — "Presented to the Corporation of Chesterfield, by Thomas Philpot Wood, on the completion of his Mayoralty, November, 1874. Chesterfield first Incorporated A.D. 1204; First Mayor Elected 1594." The chain is so designed that from each of the central circles of the triplets of links shall depend an oblong ornamental tablet, bearing on its front a shield with the initials of each successive Mayor, and at the back the date of his Mayoralty. Those so far attached — for each year sees a new tablet added — are as follows : —

First. — On the front, a monogram of the initials " G. A. R." ; and on the back " George Albert Booth, Elected Nov. 9, 1874."

Second. — On the front, the initials " J. W." ; and on the back " James Wright, Elected 1865, 1869, 1870, 1876. Died August 3rd, 1876."

Third. — On the front, the initials "J. M." ; and on the back "John Marsden, Elected Nov. 9, 1871, 1872, 1876."

Fourth. — On the front, the initials " J. D." ; and on the back " John Drabble, Elected Nov. 9, 1877."

Fifth.— On the front, the initials "T. P."; and on the back a Theophilus Pearson, Elected Nov. 9, 1878"

The pendent tablets of the Mayors elected in 1879 and 1880, have not as yet, it seems, been added.

Source: The Reliquary - October 1881

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Mr. James Fowler, the Mayor of Louth, Lincolnshire, is giving a mace to his borough as a memento of the Royal Jubilee, and entrusted the order to Messrs. T. & J. Bragg, of Birmingham, who have carried out his ideas with their well-known skill and judgment. The form is long and graceful, the flowing lines of the antique crown being followed in the head, which, moreover, has the wolf rampant of the borough coat in enamel, as also the royal arms of England, separated by decorations in which the rose, thistle, shamrock and sportive dolphins appear in due relation. The knops are enriched by acanthus ornament, laurel, oak and civic emblems. The initials of the donor are given in enamel, as also an enamelled circle with the words, " The Mace of the Borough of Louth." An inscription records the gift, and the work is executed with due regard to its purpose as a permanent specimen of the art of to-day.

Source: The Watchmaker, Jeweller & Silversmith - 1st June 1887

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An example of the work and mark of T. & J. Bragg:






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T. & J. B - Birmingham - 1886

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MAYORAL CHAIN FOR HAVERFORDWEST


Following the example of Pembroke, the town of Hwlffordd, or Haverfordwest, capital of the county of Pembroke, is now having an elaborate mayoral chain. It is the gift as the inscription informs us, of Mr George Leader Owen, and Jane Lady Maxwell of Calderwood, his wife, and in style and treatment will hold its own with the finest civic chains in Wales. It is presented in honour of the Jubilee year of the reign of Queen Victoria, and manufactured by Messrs. T. & J. Bragg, of Birmingham, on the commission of Mr White, jeweller, of Haverfordwest. The central object of the badge - the cognisance of the town belonging to the "Castle" period of British heraldry — shows a quaint castle with three towers, oriels and closed doors, the warder with trumpet on the central watch tower, and banners flying on the others. The supporters are a dragon and an eagle, while on the green sward in front of the castle is crouching the wyvern or red dragon of Wales. This is rendered in enamel in the true mediaeval spirit, and the name of the borough is given in the circular border. Four circular escutcheons are arranged round the centre device, all richly enamelled. The upper one represents the Royal emblem, the Tudor rose. The lower one the crest of Wales those at the sides record the various charters from Edward II. to James I., a subject which is further illustrated on the chain itself by the enamelled arms of the respective sovereigns. Between the four circles come the civic mace, and the fasces placed cross-wise and interspersed with oak and laurel. Above the badge is a smaller pendant, appropriately decorated containing an enamel painted miniature of the Queen, executed on a plaque of gold, eighteen-carat quality. The centre link of the chain itself consists of the Royal arms, garter, crest, supporters, and motto, all carried out in best style and correct colours, forming a most effective starting point for the main body of the chain. This is a double link connection, having a very rich effect in wear; the letter "H," initial of the town, being well brought into the design. After the succession of enamelled shields before referred to, the escutcheons and principal links will be left free to record the future municipal history of the borough by the names and years of office of its mayors. In the midst of all its elaborate detail the result is harmonious, and the finish of the highest class.

Source: The Pembrokeshire Herald and General Advertiser - 11th November 1887

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Notice is hereby given, that the Partnership heretofore subsisting between us the undersigned, Thomas Bragg and John Bragg, carrying on business as Goldsmiths and Jewellers, at 18, Vittoria-street, Birmingham, in the county of Warwick, under the style or firm of T. and J. Bragg was, on the 31st day of March, 1877, dissolved ; and that all debts due to and owing by the said late partnership will be received and paid by the said Thomas Bragg, by whom the said business will in future be carried on in the same premises under the style of T. and J. Bragg.—Dated this 1st day of October, 1877.
John Bragg.
Thos. Bragg.

Source: The London Gazette - 23rd October 1877

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